Steelers and Panthers Move Closer to Super Bowl with Upsets

Strategic Insights -

The Pittsburgh Steelers and the Carolina Panthers continued their bid for a Super Bowl appearance, both winning away from home in thrilling fashion. The Steelers stunned the heavily favored Indianapolis Colts 21-18, while the Panthers edged the Chicago Bears 29-21, thanks in part to a pair of touchdowns from Steve Smith. The Steelers' victory was particularly impressive, as they built a 21-3 lead only to see the Colts rally and set up a dramatic finish.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Steelers overcame a 21-3 deficit to upset the Colts 21-18, with Ben Roethlisberger throwing touchdowns to Antwaan Randle El and Heath Miller.
  • Steelers running back Jerome Bettis fumbled the ball at the goal line with only a minute left, allowing the Colts to recover and set up a game-tying field goal attempt.
  • However, Colts kicker Mike Vanderjagt missed a 46-yard field goal, securing the Steelers' victory and a spot in the AFC Championship game.
  • Steve Smith caught two touchdowns for the Panthers in their 29-21 win over the Chicago Bears.
  • The Panthers' victory puts them in position to face the Seattle Seahawks in the NFC Championship game next week.

Statistics:

  • The Steelers' victory marked only the second time in their franchise history that they have come back from a 21-3 deficit to win a game.
  • Ben Roethlisberger threw for 221 yards and two touchdowns in the Steelers' win.
  • Jerome Bettis rushed for 75 yards and scored one touchdown for the Steelers.
  • Steve Smith caught 7 passes for 111 yards and two touchdowns for the Panthers.
  • The Colts' Mike Vanderjagt missed his first field goal of the season, a 46-yard attempt that would have tied the game.

Sources:

  • "Steelers unbowed, but in coming out 21-18 in shocker lost home-field advantage for Super Bowl" (unspecified date)
  • "NFL Playoffs: Carolina 29, Chicago 21; Pittsburgh 21, Indianapolis 18" (unspecified date)
  • NFL.com (unspecified date)